What is meant by data integrity?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data throughout its lifecycle. It is crucial for ensuring that data remains unchanged and uncorrupted from its original source. When data maintains its original form and structure as intended, it can be trusted for analysis, reporting, and decision-making processes.

In the context of the choices provided, the idea that data is unchanged from the source accurately captures the essence of data integrity. Maintaining data integrity involves protecting data from unauthorized alterations, ensuring that any data transfer or storage does not compromise its original content and meaning.

The other options touch on aspects of data management but do not encapsulate the core concept of data integrity. For instance, the ability of data to be easily transferred focuses on data transfer mechanisms rather than its preservation and accuracy, while the active generation and use of data relates to data management practices rather than integrity per se. Lastly, eliminating obsolete data pertains to data lifecycle management but does not address the fundamental notion of having reliable and consistent data.